Public Statements

Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013

Floor Speech

Mrs. WALORSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge the passage of the Violence Against Women Act of 2013.

Let me just start off by saying that I support this bill because it is the right thing to do. I am committed to ending violence against all women. This bill takes the necessary steps to protect the rights of all of our mothers, our daughters, and wives.

The statistics are appalling. It's reported that, in the United States alone, more than 24 people each minute are victims of some sort of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. That equals more than 12 million individuals each year. These types of crimes happen to individuals from all walks of life. No gender, race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status is immune. This bill provides protection for everyone who may become victim to sexual and domestic violence.

I support this bill because it implements new accountability standards that make programs more effective. These reforms prevent taxpayer dollars from being wasted. They ensure that more money is being used to assist victims and to reduce the amount of violence that happens against women. By limiting the amount of money that can be spent on salaries and administrative costs, this bill provides greater protections for women by maximizing the amount of funding that goes directly to the victims. It is time for us to do the right thing and pass this bill.

A constituent of mine from South Bend, Indiana, recently wrote my office. She said:

As a woman who has experienced domestic violence and stalking in my own home, and as a physician who has cared for persons affected by domestic violence, I see this as an important tool to improve the quality of life in our Nation.

I urge the Members of this Chamber, both Republican and Democrat, to do the right thing and pass this bill today.